Top 10 Best Postpartum Beauty Tips Every New Mom Should Know

After childbirth, most mothers face significant changes in their bodies, the most noticeable being stretch marks. The noble role of motherhood, which only women can experience, also brings many physical changes. Many women feel disheartened and self-conscious due to the appearance of stretch marks after giving birth. These marks can reduce confidence, especially when it comes to wearing a bikini in the summer. Stretch marks and a distended belly are common concerns for many women post-delivery. So how can you reduce these issues? With just two ingredients—1 bunch of mugwort and white salt.

How to do it: First, heat around 600-800g of white salt with mugwort in a pan, then wrap the mixture in a clean towel. Lie down with the towel on your belly until the salt cools. You can reheat the salt and repeat the process. If you practice this method twice a week, you’ll definitely see noticeable results.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy are the primary cause of postpartum hair loss. During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen extend the lifespan of hair, reducing hair shedding. That's why many women notice thicker hair during the second trimester. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop, and not only does normal hair shedding occur, but it can also result in shedding of the hair that was retained during pregnancy. This leads to excessive hair loss after 3 to 4 months postpartum, and in some cases, patchy hair loss. Many new mothers face this issue, which can cause stress and self-esteem issues.

Solution: To prevent postpartum hair loss, you can use 500ml of extra virgin olive oil and 2-3 stalks of lemongrass. Simply cut the lemongrass and simmer it with the olive oil for about 10 minutes. Let the mixture cool, then store it in a jar for later use. Each week, massage your scalp with the lemongrass-infused olive oil for 5 minutes before washing your hair. This will help ensure healthy, shiny hair with reduced hair loss.

In certain cases, doctors may perform an episiotomy, a surgical cut in the perineum, to widen the birth canal and prevent severe tearing during vaginal childbirth. The procedure is typically done by administering local anesthesia to the perineum, then using scissors to make a controlled incision about 3-5cm long (either directly downward toward the anus or diagonally). After delivery, the doctor stitches up the incision with dissolvable sutures, which do not require removal later. Proper care of the perineal wound is crucial to avoid infection. By following the right care techniques, you will experience less pain and swelling within the first two days, and significantly reduce the risk of infection.

How to care for the wound: For vaginal birth mothers, it is important not to wash the wound with saltwater when you return home from the hospital. Instead, use a diluted Betadine solution with warm water, which can be purchased at any pharmacy. Alternatively, you can boil betel leaves and use the solution to rinse the area twice daily. This method helps dissolve the stitches quickly and ensures the wound heals cleanly and efficiently.

You've likely heard the advice that new mothers should avoid bathing for a month after childbirth due to weakness. Some families follow this tradition, while others strongly disagree. But is it truly necessary to avoid bathing? According to doctors, avoiding bathing is unnecessary and can actually hinder the mother's recovery. Bathing helps keep the intimate areas clean, reduces the risk of infection, and promotes overall well-being by improving blood circulation. Many women today turn to the herbal bath of the Red Dao people after childbirth. This traditional herbal bath is said to help with blood flow, cleanse the body, rejuvenate health, and prevent postpartum ailments, while also promoting the restoration of the body and helping regain pre-pregnancy shape.

How to use: New mothers can purchase Red Dao herbal bath leaves for about 80,000 VND per pack, which is enough for two uses. Simply boil the leaves and bathe in the water for a refreshing, fragrant cleanse. A tip: avoid soaking for too long, as it may cause dizziness. After the bath, you will feel much more energized the next day.

Scientific research has shown that red beans are packed with nutrients that help smooth the skin, tighten pores, brighten the complexion, and even treat acne. Rich in vitamins B1 and C, they nourish collagen, boosting skin elasticity and smoothness. Additionally, the antioxidants in red beans rejuvenate the skin, enhance skin tone, and promote a more even complexion. With its natural cooling properties, red beans can be combined with other natural ingredients like yogurt, honey, fresh fruit, oats, and beer to moisturize and lighten the skin. Here is a simple guide on how to achieve full-body skin whitening using red bean powder, a favorite among beauty enthusiasts.

How to use: Mix unsweetened milk with two tablespoons of red bean powder until you get a smooth paste. Apply the mixture to your face and body, then gently massage for 20 minutes. Rinse off with clean water, and you’ll enjoy soft, radiant skin all over your body.

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and after childbirth can lead to an imbalance in the body’s hormones. High levels of androgen stimulate the sebaceous glands, causing the skin to produce more oil. As a result, many new mothers experience an increase in acne. The early stages of motherhood are often stressful, which can exacerbate the problem. According to Dr. Neal Schultz, a dermatologist, stress causes the body to produce more cortisone, which in turn leads to a spike in androgen production. This creates an environment where oil glands become more active, triggering more breakouts. Thus, many women find themselves battling with stubborn pimples that can lower their confidence and remind them of their teenage years.

How to treat: While acne may seem like an impossible enemy to conquer, you can reduce it with a simple remedy. Take a handful of fresh water spinach, wash it thoroughly, and blend it into a juice. Next, steam some green beans, remove the skin, and blend them as well. Every morning, drink a glass of the water spinach and green bean mixture. With consistent use, you’ll notice clearer, brighter skin.

Many new mothers experience skin imperfections, including stubborn acne scars, after childbirth. While some women may only suffer from mild breakouts that clear up after a few weeks, others face more severe acne that leaves lasting marks. These dark spots, also known as acne scars, can make the skin uneven and less smooth. The formation of these scars can stem from several causes and often become a major concern for many, particularly women. On average, it can take around 6 months for the skin to naturally repair and fade acne scars, but in some cases, this process may extend over a few years. However, with proper care and treatment, the healing time can be shortened.

How to treat: Acne scars after childbirth can be difficult to treat. One simple solution involves creating a mixture of turmeric powder and unsweetened yogurt. Apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water. With consistent use, you'll notice a significant reduction in the appearance of the scars within a week.

New mothers often find themselves awake at night due to their babies crying, leading to the appearance of dark circles under their eyes. These eye bags can be unsightly and cause women to feel less confident about their appearance. One of the most effective ways to reduce puffiness and dark circles is by using tea bags. Simply apply chilled, used tea bags to your eyes for 10-15 minutes in the morning after waking up. This affordable, easy remedy not only reduces dark circles but also helps with puffiness and offers a relaxing moment.

How to do it: Dip tea bags into hot water, let them cool, and then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the cold tea bags on your eyes for 10-15 minutes to see immediate effects on swelling. For even better results, choose tea bags containing caffeine, as caffeine helps reduce puffiness and smooths out wrinkles.

As we know, turmeric powder is a popular and powerful ingredient used to treat various health issues. Similarly, honey is a natural sweetener with numerous health benefits for people of all ages. The combination of turmeric and honey creates a perfect duo with remarkable effects. Honey's antibacterial properties complement turmeric's ability to detoxify the body, heal wounds, and protect the skin from harmful agents. This powerful combination helps to brighten the skin and treat acne, giving you smooth, glowing skin after childbirth.

How to use: Mix 20ml of pure honey into warm water, then add 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder. Stir well to enjoy a quick and delicious drink. Note: Limit yourself to two cups of this turmeric and honey drink per day. Drinking too much may cause side effects.

Aside from spa treatments and skincare products, there's an incredibly effective and inexpensive way to improve your skin: steaming with ginger, alcohol, and lemongrass. This method only needs to be done once a week. Facial steaming is a great way to cleanse and smooth your skin. The heat helps activate blood vessels, opens up pores, and accelerates the shedding of dead skin cells. The steam also helps draw out dirt and toxins trapped beneath the skin, while stimulating collagen production, making your skin smoother and more youthful. As a result, you'll achieve firm, smooth skin with minimized pores.
How to do it: Clean a piece of ginger and fresh lemongrass, crush them, and boil them in a pot of water for about 5 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of alcohol, then turn off the heat. Drape a clean towel over your head and the pot, and steam your face for around 15 minutes, keeping a safe distance to avoid burns. After steaming, rinse your face with cool water.